NCJ Number
232400
Journal
Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 21 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2006 Pages: 209-228
Date Published
February 2006
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study examined changes in reporter practices and subsequent coverage of domestic violence murders by comparing print coverage of domestic violence murders prehandbook (1996-1999) and posthandbook (2000-2002).
Abstract
Stressing relation-building and participatory communication approaches, the Rhode Island Coalition against Domestic Violence worked with journalists to develop a best practices handbook on news coverage of domestic violence murders. This study compares print coverage of domestic violence murders prehandbook (1996-1999) and posthandbook (2000-2002). Significant changes include increased labeling of the murder of intimates as domestic violence and doubled usage of advocates as sources. As a result, domestic violence murders, previously framed as unpredictable private tragedies, are more commonly framed posthandbook as social problems warranting public intervention. The authors conclude that relation-building approaches can affect news cultures and public discourse when conducted in conjunction with comprehensive participatory communications strategies. Tables, figures, notes, and references(Published Abstract)